Snow Ball Cookies are delicate, buttery little treats rolled generously in powdered sugar, giving them their signature snowy appearance. These melt-in-your-mouth cookies are a holiday classic, but they are delicious enough to enjoy all year long. With their tender crumb and nutty flavor, they’re perfect for cookie platters, tea time, gifts, or whenever you want a simple homemade dessert.
Also known in some places as Russian Tea Cakes, Mexican Wedding Cookies, or Butterballs, these cookies are loved for their rich texture and easy preparation. Made with pantry staples and chopped nuts, they come together quickly and always disappear fast.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Bake Time: 12 to 15 minutes
- Cooling Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield
- About 24 cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar for rolling
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooling rack
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Make the Dough
In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
Mix in vanilla extract.
Add flour and salt gradually, mixing until combined.
Fold in chopped nuts.
Step 3: Shape Cookies
Scoop small portions of dough and roll into 1-inch balls.
Place them on the baking sheet about 1 inch apart.
Step 4: Bake
Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until bottoms are lightly golden. Tops should remain pale.
Step 5: First Sugar Coating
Allow cookies to cool for 5 minutes until warm but safe to handle.
Roll each cookie in powdered sugar.
Step 6: Cool Completely
Transfer cookies to a rack and let cool fully.
Step 7: Second Sugar Coating
Roll cookies again in powdered sugar for the classic snowy finish.
Nutrition Facts (Approx. Per Cookie)
- Calories: 130
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Protein: 1g
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 20mg
Tips for Best Results
- Use softened butter, not melted butter.
- Finely chop nuts for smoother texture.
- Do not overbake.
- Roll once warm and again when cool for best coating.
- Store in airtight container to keep fresh.
Variations
Almond Snow Balls
Use chopped almonds and almond extract.
Chocolate Version
Add mini chocolate chips or cocoa powder.
Coconut Version
Mix in shredded coconut.
Gluten-Free Version
Use a gluten-free flour blend.
Storage
- Room Temperature: Up to 1 week
- Freezer: Up to 2 months
Serving Suggestions
Serve Snow Ball Cookies with:
- Coffee
- Tea
- Hot chocolate
- Holiday dessert platters
- Gift tins
